Korean Job Discussion Forums

[lexicon]

Hi everyone,
I'd like to find out what people do about insurance/travel insurance prior to arriving in Korea (or whether they deem it necessary). I'm coming out from the UK this weekend, but every company I've contacted so far regarding things like annual trip policies require a return air ticket (ensuring the policy starts and ends in the UK) - my problem being that I only have a one-way ticket.

Also, what about insuring possessions once you're in Korea?
I'm not bringing a suitcase of diamonds (unfortunately ), just the usual electrics etc.

Any advice much appreciated, & apologies if this is the millionth repost on the subject.

[Rteacher]

I think that Korea is relatively safe with regard to theft. I don't know of any foreign teachers insuring their possessions, and I've been here about eight years.

[b0101]

Insuring possessions probably is not worth it. I have only met one person who did that, and that's because he has loads of high-end electronic gadgets.

In terms of health insurance, your school should be covering you with the national health insurance plan. HOWEVER, from what I understand there are many things this doesn't cover, like MRIs, some xrays, burns, and I heard cancer and intensive care but I'm not sure. Some people purchase supplemental insurance for situations like this. I'm considering doing this for the sole reason that if something should happen to me here, I don't want my parents to be responsible for my medical bills and the cost bringing my body back home. Not to sound morbid or paranoid, but the few parents who have lost their children here now have some pretty hefty bills on top of a lot of grief.

That said, most people just go with the national health insurance. But, I would confirm that your school is offering that. Although they are legally obligated to give it to you, many hagwons don't. Medical care in general is much cheaper than in Western countries.

Hope this helps.